JACKSONVILLE, Fla., August 27, 2013 – Today Duval County Democratic Party Chairman Neil Henrichsen released the following statement on Public Defender Matt Shirk:

“The information coming out in the Florida Times-Union about Public Defender Matt Shirk’s office allegedly destroying public documents and engaging in improper employment practices is deeply concerning and a betrayal of the public trust,” said Duval County Democratic Party Chair Neil Henrichsen. “I call on Governor Scott to suspend Shirk from his public defender duties while an independent investigation by a state attorney outside of Fourth Judicial Circuit is conducted to look into if the law was broken. If the allegations prove to be true, Shirk should resign his position immediately.”

“Additionally, the Public Defender is a critical function within the criminal justice system in Florida. If taxpayer funds are being mishandled and there are unlawful practices, citizens are entitled to accountability,” said Henrichsen.